Trafford Business

Network group for women in business

3:30pm Sunday 1st August 2010

FEMALE entrepreneurs across Greater Manchester have banded together to form a network called ‘Handbags and Briefcases'.

The group was created as a support system for local business women to meet like-minded people as well as receive practical advise and help for their company. The number of members has steadily increased since the group began back in 2008, with it now boasting over 50 members from the Wythenshawe and Greater Manchester area.

For an annual fee of £10, the women share contacts and hold monthly meetings and events that aim to maximize their business potential. One recent event held in Trafford, back in June, involved a talk by a local entrepreneur about making the most of social media such as twitter and facebook.

Other events throughout Manchester have included women speaking about how to have a successful appearances on Dragons Den, to another discussing how best to cope with public speaking.

The local business networking group was set up after several women met at a ‘Women in Business’ course run by Willow Park Housing Trust’s Enterprise Support Project. With help from the Enterprise Support Project, the women went on to set up Handbags and Briefcases with the aim of creating a “pressure free environment for women to network, both professionally to promote their business, and socially to meet like-minded women for mutual support and sharing of experiences".

Women who are interested in learning more or become part of the Handbags and Briefcases network visit their website www.handbagsandbriefcases.co.uk or call 07930560291.

• Email this page